Curious Arts Festival is an extraordinary, boutique festival offering an eclectic mix of literature, comedy and music nestled between the sea and the beautiful gardens of Pylewell Park. This year's literary line-up includes Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy, Michel Faber, and author of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel novels, Deborah Moggach. A stellar cast of comedians keep the entertainment going through the afternoons with Chris Martin, Zoe Lyons, Lloyd Griffiths and others, before the evenings come alive with an array of musical acts from the up and coming to the legendary, including Billy Bragg, Lucy Rose, Skinny Lister and Jake Isaac.

Younger festival goers will be delighted by writer Piers Torday, comedian James Campbell, family yoga, insect walks, jabberwocky hunts and the craft tent.

Other curiosities include a weekend long Sonnet-athon led by playwright Polly Stenham, writing workshops with S J Watson and Booker prize-winner DBC Pierre, an authors' XI cricket match, life drawing, a well being centre, meditations, bedtime stories, garden tours and a film tent.

The whole festival kicks-off with an operatic performance on the Thursday evening, supported by a 30 strong choir. For more information on the full programme, food, drinks, and accommodation, visit www.curiousartsfestival.com